After a brief lull, US drones carried out multiple attacks on Thursday on two compounds of the Haqqani network, an al-Qaeda ally and another terrorist hideout in Pakistan's restive North Waziristan region, killing at least 18 Taliban militants, including foreign terrorists.
Up to five drones fired 10 missiles at two militant compounds in Depan and Amburshaga areas of North Waziristan, sources said.
A journalist based in the area said he had heard 10 blasts.
Seven foreigners were among the 16 militants killed in the attack, sources said. Reports said the two compounds targeted by the drones were being used by militants of the Haqqani network, which is closely allied to Al Qaida and active in Afghanistan.
Militants cordoned off the area and removed bodies and injured from the rubble, local residents said.
Several drones were seen hovering over the area after the attack.
Earlier in the day, a US drone targeted a vehicle in which militants were travelling in Datakhel village, located a short distance from Miranshah, the main town of North Waziristan Agency.
Two militants were killed and as many injured in that attack. Witnesses said the vehicle was destroyed when it was hit by a missile. The dead men were believed to be foreign militants.
Two militants were killed and as many injured in that attack. Witnesses said the vehicle was destroyed when it was hit by a missile. The dead men were believed to be foreign militants.